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Car seats carry labels with critical information: limits, model and date information, warnings and aircraft approval. Knowing how to read them helps you use the seat correctly and check recalls.
Weight and height limits
Labels list limits for each mode: rear-facing, forward-facing, booster. Follow the stricter of weight and height.
Model number and date of manufacture
Used for recalls and registration. See car seat recalls.
Expiration
Some seats show a "do not use after" date; others list manufacture date and state lifespan in the manual. See car seat expiration.
FAA approval
Look for the statement that the seat is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft. Boosters aren't approved for aircraft use.
Lower anchor limits
Labels show when to stop using lower anchors. See lower anchor weight limits.
Warnings
Airbag warnings and installation warnings appear on labels. Read them.
A tour of the typical labels
Most car seats have several labels. A certification label states that the seat conforms to federal motor vehicle safety standards and, if applicable, that it's certified for use in aircraft. A manufacturer label lists the model name and number and the date of manufacture. Limit labels show the weight and height ranges for each mode, and often a rule about head position relative to the top of the shell. Warning labels cover airbags, correct harness use and installation. Some seats have separate labels for lower anchor limits, and some have diagrams of belt paths. Keep all labels intact and readable.
Weight and height: both matter
A child outgrows a mode when they reach any one of the limits, whichever comes first. Many children reach the rear-facing height limit before the weight limit. Some seats specify a height limit in inches; others specify that the top of the child's head must be a certain distance below the top of the shell or headrest. Measure your child and check regularly.
Registration card
New seats come with a registration card or online registration details. Registering lets the manufacturer notify you of recalls. Use the model number and manufacture date from the label.
If labels are damaged
If a label is worn but readable, protect it; don't cover it with stickers. If labels are missing or unreadable, contact the manufacturer with any identifying information. A seat without labels shouldn't be used, since you can't confirm its limits, age or recall status.
Labels on boosters
Booster labels show height and weight ranges and often state a minimum age. Boosters aren't certified for aircraft use because airplane seats have lap belts only.
Finding labels on different seat types
Infant carriers usually have labels on the sides of the shell and underneath; bases have their own labels. Convertibles and all-in-ones often have several labels on the sides and back, sometimes under the fabric cover. Boosters may have labels underneath the seat or on the back. If you can't find a label, check the manual's diagram of label locations.
Using labels to check recalls
Write down the model number and date of manufacture from the labels, then check NHTSA's recall database or the manufacturer's site. Some manufacturers also list recalls by model name. Registering the seat ensures future recall notices reach you. See car seat recalls.
Understanding mode-specific limits
All-in-one and combination seats list separate limits for each mode: rear-facing harness, forward-facing harness and booster. It's easy to mix them up. Highlight or photograph the limits for the mode you're using, and check them as your child grows.
Labels and new standards
As federal standards change, labels may reference newer testing, such as side impact requirements. Understanding the standards helps you compare seats. See FMVSS 213a changes.
Labels and aircraft travel
If you plan to fly with your child in their car seat, check the label for the aircraft certification statement before your trip, and consider photographing it in case you're asked. Flight attendants may ask to see it.
Our bottom line
Labels tell you the limits, age and identity of your seat. Keep them readable, note the expiration date, register the seat using the model number and date, and check limits as your child grows.
Where to learn more
Your seat's manual explains every label in detail. Manufacturers' customer service lines can answer questions about labels and limits. CPSTs can help you interpret them during a check.
Quick label checklist
- Model number and manufacture date found.
- Expiration date or lifespan confirmed.
- Weight and height limits for each mode noted.
- Lower anchor limit noted.
- Aircraft certification checked if flying.
- Seat registered with the manufacturer.
Labels on bases and carriers
Infant seat bases and carriers have separate labels, including separate manufacture dates. Check both for expiration and recalls.
Related
1. Car seat with clear labeling
$$Best for: All families
All seats sold in the U.S. carry required labels.
What we like
- Required info
Watch out for
- Read them
2. Label protector
$Best for: Keeping labels readable
Keep labels clean; don't remove them.
What we like
- Protection
Watch out for
- Don't cover required labels
Frequently asked questions
Where are car seat labels?
On the sides, back and bottom of the seat.
What if my label is missing?
Don't use the seat; you can't confirm limits or recalls.
Where's the expiration date?
On a label or molded into the shell, or in the manual.
How do I know if a seat is FAA approved?
Look for the aircraft certification statement.
What's the model number for?
Recalls and registration.
Can I use a car seat if the label is faded?
If it's still readable, yes, with care to protect it. If not, contact the manufacturer; a seat with unreadable labels shouldn't be used.
Do boosters have expiration dates?
Yes, most do. Check the label or manual.
Do labels list the seat's weight?
Some do; the manual usually lists seat weight.
What does 'do not use after' mean?
It's the expiration date. After that date, the seat shouldn't be used.
Can I write the expiration date on the seat?
Many parents mark it on a piece of tape or in their phone, without covering required labels.
Is the manufacture date the same as the purchase date?
No. The manufacture date is when the seat was made, which may be months before you buy it. Expiration is usually based on manufacture date.